One Thousand Steps Beach(1000 Steps Beach)

Located in Santa Barbara in Southern California, 1000 Steps Beach is a rocky beach known for its unique east-west orientation, tide pools, and lack of crowds. Despite its name, there are only 150 steps to get from the street to the sand, but these steps are steep so be prepared to break a sweat. 

This beach is secluded and there are no restrooms, showers, or lifeguards, so be sure to plan ahead.

This beach is very rocky and not recommended for water sports. The main attraction of this beach is the beautiful views and easy access to tide pools. During low tide, you can walk east to Shoreline Park Beach and west to Mesa Lane Beach, as well as observing marine life at the tide pools. 1000 Steps Beach is also one of the few beaches in Santa Barbara that allows off-leash dogs so bring your pup for a fun day by the water.

You'll find street parking located by the entrance to the beach and in nearby residential neighborhoods.

This beach is very rocky and not recommended for water sports. The main attraction of this beach is the beautiful views and easy access to tide pools. During low tide, you can walk east to Shoreline Park Beach and west to Mesa Lane Beach, as well as observing marine life at the tide pools. 1000 Steps Beach is also one of the few beaches in Santa Barbara that allows off-leash dogs so bring your pup for a fun day by the water.

If you get hungry, you'll find many options located within a 20-minute walk from 1000 Steps Beach. Head to Mesa Verde Restaurant for creative plant-based food in a rustic setting. They use only organic produce from Santa Barbara’s farmer’s markets to create their Mediterranean-inspired dishes. For a budget-friendly option try Super Cucas, the first taqueria established in Santa Barbara that's famous for their burritos. Their portion sizes are massive so definitely come hungry! For a sit-down Mexican food option, we like Rose Café, a local staple that’s been open since the 1940s and is still owned by the same family. We’re fans of their breakfast plates that combine classics from Mexican and American cuisine.

If you’re looking for a place to stay, you'll find accommodations located only a 10-minute drive from the beach. The Kimpton Canary Santa Barbara is a 4-Star Spanish-style hotel that is known for its stunning views of the ocean from the rooftop pool. They offer a hosted wine hour, complimentary beach cruisers, and free CorePower Yoga classes. You can also stay at the Bath Street Inn, a charming bed and breakfast constructed in the 1890s with 12 unique rooms. For a budget-friendly option, check out The Presidio, a modern motel that's located in the historic Presidio area of Santa Barbara and is close to all of the city’s attractions. You can enjoy ocean views from the sundeck, comfortable linens, and complimentary bikes.